VIRUS G BY DJ BILLYPHOBIA

GROOVING IN GREEN

Stranglehold

Grooving in Green is a british genuine act of gothic rock formed in 2008 which takes its name from one of The March Violets' Botanic Verses. The line-up consists in three very well noted musicians who sharpened their experiences before in legendary Children On Stun and Solemn Novena: General Megatron Bison (vocals), Simon Manning (guitars, bass) and Pete Finnemore (guitars) - although Simon left the band on last December. The GIG's soundscape is driven by dominant basslines, relentless machine beats, assertive riffs and guitar sound-enriching effects. But also what makes the difference here is the unique vocal performance which switches easily among colourful growlings, strident rockey voices and conventional indie tones. Extremely infectious underground music made of energy-giving and harsh sounds that focuses on straightforward forcefulness to groove in goth without being a "...fucking scene whore" (literally quote extracted from the "King Mediocre" lyrics).

Two years after their succesful debut ("Post Traumatic Stress") the band launched their second full-length album, "Stranglehold", as digital download on October. Finally the CD has been released this year by AF Music. Stranglehold's fresh and modern production, courtesy of Stephen Carey (This Burning Effigy, Adoration, The Eden House) gives a contemporary finish to the band's nostalgic sound. The new material is more energetic and direct than their predecessor release and it's built on unpretentious, effective and well-performed melodies which reminds me the early years of some guitar-oriented goth precursors from UK (songs like "Stranglehold", "Die Alone" and "King Mediocre" are great examples of this formula). In spite that there is no complex parts all over this recording they also form some intriguing melodies, as "Beneath The Surface" shows, and some alternative approach based on subtle post-punk vibes, for example in "A New Vessel". The best is reserved for the ending track, "Even the Light", which is more atmospheric, melodic and captivating. The memorable main refrain and vocal lines will remain in your brain for a long time. Eleven powerful tracks with sharp and worth checking out lyrics which deal mostly with social matters.

Is that virus running through your veins yet? Then this record is your best choice to prevent old-school withdrawal symptoms.